A Special Assistant on Public Communication to former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Phrank Shaibu, has criticized President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s decision to take a two-week vacation amidst Nigeria’s economic turmoil.
Shaibu described the Federal Government as “not a travel agency” and lambasted Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to Tinubu on Information and Strategy, for defending the President’s vacation. Onanuga had stated that the President should not be disturbed during his private time and can travel anywhere he desires.
According to Onanuga, “President Tinubu is on leave for two weeks. He is not restricted to the UK. It is his private time. He can go to anywhere he so desires. He is still observing his leave”.
The controversy surrounding Tinubu’s vacation has sparked heated debates, with many Nigerians expressing concerns about the President’s priorities. The country is currently grappling with fuel price hikes, inflation, insecurity, and a crumbling economy.
Shaibu argued that Nigerians deserve leadership that acknowledges the gravity of their challenges, not one that seems indifferent to their struggles. He emphasized that the President’s vacation sends the wrong message, especially during a time when citizens are struggling to make ends meet.
The Presidency’s response has been met with skepticism, with many questioning the timing of the President’s vacation. The development has reignited discussions about the government’s priorities and its commitment to addressing the country’s economic woes.
This criticism comes as Nigeria implements economic reforms aimed at stabilizing the economy and improving citizens’ lives. The World Bank has approved a $2.25 billion financing package to support Nigeria’s reform efforts. However, these reforms have also led to increased costs of living, highlighting the need for thoughtful leadership during these challenging times.
However, Shaibu, in a post on his X handle lampooned Onanuga, describing his comments as insensitive in light of the present economic situation in the country.
“Onanuga Needs Help”, Shaibu remarks in his response to the Presidency’s statement signed by Onanuga.
” It’s funny how the same office that demands sacrifices from citizens – tightening belts, paying more taxes, enduring hardships – suddenly becomes a playground of personal indulgence at the top.
” Public office isn’t a personal getaway; it’s a duty that requires being accountable 24/7, even on leave”.
He added: “The president is on vacation and can jet off to wherever his heart desires, because apparently, leadership is like a Netflix subscription – you can pause it whenever you please.
“While Nigerians grapple with fuel price hikes, inflation, insecurity, and a crumbling economy, we’re told not to worry because, well, it’s his private time…this Onanuga of a ‘boy’ needs help”.
He said Onanuga telling Nigerians that his principal can “go anywhere” reeks of indifference, as if the citizens’ are nothing but some inconsequential afterthought.
He said, “Nigerians deserve leadership that matches the gravity of the challenges they face, not one that treats the presidency like a travel agency.”
